South Gloucestershire schools have been named top of the Modeshift STARS (Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools) league for the second year in a row, with the local authority topping the table for the highest percentage of schools with Modeshift STARS accreditation in large authority areas for 2025.
Modeshift STARS reward schools that have demonstrated excellence in supporting sustainable and active travel to their pupils and staff. South Gloucestershire Council has been taking part since March 2020 and has retained its top position out of 49 large local authority areas.
There are now 42 South Gloucestershire schools and nurseries accredited, with five more schools being recognised with Modeshift STARS this spring. Bowsland Green Primary, Bromley Heath Juniors, The Park Primary, Parkwall Primary, Two Bridges Academy and St John’s Mead C of E Primary schools have all earned ‘Good’ accreditation. Wick C of E Primary has also risen a level to achieve ‘Very Good’ status.
South Gloucestershire Council funds new infrastructure to help support more active travel for schools that successfully gain Modeshift STARS accreditation by the end of the year. Schools that achieve ‘Good’ receive £1500, ‘Very Good’ £4,000, ‘Excellent’ £6,000 and ‘Outstanding’ schools £7,000.
Schools are able to choose from a variety of items such as scooter and cycle storage, lockers for pupils, outdoor parent shelters and seating, depending on the level of accreditation achieved.
Councillor Louise Harris, Cabinet Member for Climate and Nature Emergency at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It’s a real privilege to lead the Modeshift STARS league among large local authorities and this success is a testament to the efforts of our schools and the enthusiasm of their incredible pupils, who are combining to make a positive difference to our environment every day.
“We continue to work closely with schools to support their sustainable travel goals by reducing short car journeys during periods when our roads are at their busiest. The scheme not only helps protect our environment, but also promotes healthier, more active lifestyles for children, eases congestion around schools, and improves local air quality.”
Ben Wells, teacher at Bowsland Green Primary School in Stoke Gifford, said: “Active travel is such an important part of improving outcomes and reducing harms that it felt like a no-brainer to aim for Modeshift STARS accreditation. South Gloucestershire has been brilliantly helpful so far and we expect that to only continue as we plan for even bigger and better things. The resources, not to mention the funding, are effective in getting the wider school community on board with our progress and I’m excited for what comes next.”
Antony Jelf, teacher at The Park Primary School in Kingswood, said: “The Modeshift STARS programme has positively impacted our school by fostering a culture of active travel and healthy living among our students and families. Through engaging initiatives like themed assemblies and workshops, we’ve enhanced road safety awareness and encouraged sustainable transportation choices, contributing to a healthier school environment.”
Full details on the league can be found on the Modeshift website Latest STARS Education League tables Spring 2025 – Modeshift
Additional photos of St John’s Mead C of E Primary, Bromely Heath Juniors, Bowsland Green Primary and Wick C of E Primary Schools celebrating their Modeshift STARS success can be found on our Flickr site: Modeshift Stars 2025 | Flickr
